The BMW 735Li (E66) represented a significant iteration of BMW’s flagship sedan, produced from 2001 to 2005. Part of the long-wheelbase (Li) variant of the E66 generation, it was primarily aimed at markets where rear-seat passenger comfort and prestige were highly valued, notably including China and other Asian countries. The 735Li offered a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced technology, positioning itself as a step below the range-topping 745i and 760i models in BMW’s lineup. It featured a naturally aspirated V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering a smoother, more refined driving experience than its higher-powered siblings, while still delivering respectable performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 7 Series |
| Generation | 7 Series Long (E66) |
| Type (Engine) | 735Li (272 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2001 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 16 l/100 km (14.7 US mpg, 17.7 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7 kg/Hp, 143.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 272 Hp @ 6200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 360 Nm @ 3700 rpm (265.52 lb.-ft. @ 3700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N62B36 |
| Engine displacement | 3600 cm3 (219.69 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.2 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 8 l (8.45 US qt | 7.04 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.1 l (14.9 US qt | 12.41 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1900 kg (4188.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2480 kg (5467.46 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 88 l (23.25 US gal | 19.36 UK gal) |
| Length | 5169 mm (203.5 in.) |
| Width | 1902 mm (74.88 in.) |
| Height | 1492 mm (58.74 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3130 mm (123.23 in.) |
| Front track | 1578 mm (62.13 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.6 m (41.34 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 245/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 8J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 735Li was the N62B36 engine, a 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V8. This engine utilized BMW’s Double-VANOS variable valve timing system for both intake and exhaust valves, optimizing performance and efficiency across the rev range. Fuel delivery was handled by a multi-port fuel injection system. The N62 engine was known for its smooth power delivery and relatively high-revving nature for a V8 of its size. Paired with the engine was a six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offered both fully automatic operation and a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to have more control over gear selection. The transmission was tuned for comfort and refinement, with smooth shifts and a focus on minimizing harshness.
Driving Characteristics
The 735Li offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as the 745i, the 272 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque provided ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 7.1 seconds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration, rather than outright performance. Compared to the 745i with its supercharged V8, the 735Li felt less urgent in its acceleration, but it offered a more relaxed and predictable driving experience. The longer wheelbase of the ‘Li’ model contributed to a smoother ride, particularly noticeable on uneven road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 735Li came standard with a comprehensive list of luxury features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. Rear passengers benefited from the extended wheelbase, offering increased legroom and enhanced comfort. Optional extras included features like active suspension, upgraded leather trim, rear-seat entertainment systems, and a navigation system. The interior design emphasized elegance and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The E66 7 Series utilized a sophisticated chassis design, featuring a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 735Li was equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety and control during emergency braking situations. The steering was a hydraulic power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 735Li was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, refined interior, and smooth powertrain. However, some critics noted that it lacked the outright performance of its higher-powered siblings. Compared to the 745i, the 735Li offered a more affordable entry point into the E66 7 Series range, while still providing a luxurious and well-equipped experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for a V8-powered luxury sedan, averaging around 21 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although the N62 engine was known to be susceptible to coolant leaks over time.
Legacy
The BMW 735Li (E66) remains a desirable used car today, particularly for those seeking a comfortable and well-equipped luxury sedan. The N62 engine, while requiring regular maintenance, is generally considered to be a durable and reliable powerplant. Parts availability is good, and the car’s relatively simple technology compared to modern luxury cars makes it easier to maintain and repair. The 735Li represents a significant chapter in BMW’s history, showcasing the brand’s commitment to luxury, performance, and innovation.
